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Living Free - Oct. 24, 2013

"Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. … Each one should test his own actions … each one should carry his own load." - Galatians 6:2-5 NIV

Thoughts for Today

As we lean on God, he often answers our prayers through other people. He calls Christians to lean on each other.

Although independence is not always admirable, interdependence is a biblical principle that carries the idea of mutual dependency.

There are times when you need to lean on others, allowing them to demonstrate God's love by helping you through a difficult time. Asking for help is not a sign of weakness. It is a step of reaching out for one of God's provisions for you—the Christian community.

Consider this …

It is important to recognize that there is a difference between leaning on others and using them. (Also a difference between helping others and allowing them to use you.)

We are to carry each other's burdens, but we are also to carry our own load. Carrying our own load means taking personal responsibility. It is a matter of finding the right balance. These verses describe that kind of balance: "Get along among yourselves, each of you doing your part. Our counsel is that you warn the freeloaders to get a move on. Gently encourage the stragglers, and reach out for the exhausted, pulling them to their feet. Be patient with each person, attentive to individual needs. And be careful that when you get on each other's nerves you don't snap at each other. Look for the best in each other, and always do your best to bring it out." 1 Thessalonians 5:13-15 MSG

Father, help me not to be too proud to ask others for help. Also, help me never to take advantage of other people's willingness to give. Teach us to find the right balance in leaning on each other. In Jesus' name …

These thoughts were drawn from …

Authentic Living in an Artificial World by Dr. Mike Chapman. This 45-minute group study gives understanding about what it means to be real. The facilitator's guide includes reproducible group member study sheets and an audio CD designed to help facilitators prepare for each session. Note: This curriculum was written especially for small groups, and we encourage people to use it that way. However, it can also be used effectively as a study for individuals or couples.